National Dog Bite Awareness Campaign

Created: 20 March 2007

As a part of its ongoing committment to protect children, adults and
animals, The Humane Society of Canada has started a national campaign to
promote awareness and education with respect to Dog Bites. We have Top Ten Tips for Children as well as suggestions for owners, and a more indepth analysis

To learn more about the nature of dog bites and their solution - click on any of the following articles:

Pets are regarded as valued members of any family. We believe you can care about
people and animals at the same time. Most of the more
than six million dogs in Canada will never bite anyone and these animal
companions provide numerous benefits to their guardians and communities.

To reduce the number of dog bites, The Humane Society of Canada has created a fifteen point action plan which reflects recommendations that place responsibility for a dog's actions on the people who care and control the dogs.

Encourage children to be aware of the dogs in the neighbourhood. Never pet a strange or unfamiliar pet.

Never approach a dog that is tied up or confined to a small space, this may frighten a dog and cause him to protect his space.

Never tease a dog with food or toys, they may become aggravated and attack.

Whenever children approach a dog they should offer a closed hand and allow the dog to smell it first before they pet the dog.

Never rub a dog along his side or grab his tail, this may scare them and lead them to attack.

Spay or neuter your dog. This may ease their aggression and make them happier and healthier.

Never,
under any circumstance, leave a family dog alone with infants or small
children. Many children have been maimed and killed this way.

Dog owners should socialize their dogs and make them familiar with people and other pets in the neighbourhood.

If
ever confronted by a dog, do not scream or run away. Instead, try to
place an object between you and the dog or throw food or a stick to
distract the dog’s attention.

Remember most dogs never bite anyone, but it is always better to be prepared.

Humane
Society of Canada estimates someone suffers a dog bite in Canada every
60 seconds, yet no national prevention program in place

In 2003, The Humane Society of Canada launched a public service campaign
as part of National Dog Bite Prevention Week (May 22-29) to provide
tips to parents and dog owners in a campaign to reduce dog bite
incidents. Media reports from across Canada frequently report dog
attacks, yet governments typically react with legislation and fines,
not education and prevention.

"If
we can streetproof our kids against strangers, why not strange dogs?"
says Michael O’Sullivan, CEO, Humane Society of Canada. "We can have
legislation, but fines arrive after the damage is done - we need a more
balanced program of education for dog owners and parents backed-up by
smart legislation and law enforcement." - more

We have also sought political support for our efforts
from every elected official in Canada. We sent this letter to the Prime Minister and every Premier, aussi au Quebec en francais .